Winter Vehicle Storage: How to Properly Prepare Your Vehicle and Avoid Unpleasant Surprises

The arrival of winter marks the end of the season for many vehicles.

Convertibles, classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, or vehicles used only during the warmer months: when it comes time to store them, a few precautions can make all the difference. Improper storage preparation can lead to battery problems, corrosion, moisture damage, or even costly repairs in the spring. Beyond mechanical maintenance, it is equally important to review your insurance coverage and follow the applicable vehicle registration procedures.

How should you prepare your vehicle for winter storage?

1.  Should you clean your vehicle before storing it?

2. How can you protect the battery, tires, and mechanical components?

An extended period of inactivity can affect several vehicle components. Before storing your vehicle, it is recommended that you check:

The battery: Depending on the vehicle and the manufacturer’s recommendations, using a compatible battery maintainer can help preserve its condition. Some vehicles require specific precautions before disconnecting the battery.
The tires: Check the tire pressure and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for long-term storage. Improper tire pressure can contribute to deterioration.
Fluids: Make sure the oil, coolant, and other fluid levels are appropriate. Maintenance may be required before storage.
Fuel: Depending on the engine type, storage period, and manufacturer’s recommendations, certain precautions may be useful to help protect the fuel system.
Brakes: A vehicle that remains stationary for a long period may develop problems related to moisture or corrosion. The method used to keep the vehicle stationary should be appropriate for the specific vehicle.

The requirements are not the same for a classic car, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, or electric vehicle.

If in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or an automotive maintenance professional.

3. What is the best place to store your vehicle during the winter?

The storage location plays an important role in preserving the vehicle. Whenever possible, choose a space that is:

• Dry and well ventilated.
• Secure and protected from the elements.
• Equipped with a stable surface.
• Protected from water and snow accumulation.
• Located where the risk of water infiltration and damage is limited.

An enclosed garage can provide better protection from outdoor conditions, but it is still important to monitor humidity and ventilation. If the vehicle must be stored outdoors, a suitable breathable cover can help protect it. However, avoid covers that trap moisture or could damage the paint. For some recreational vehicles, additional precautions may be necessary, particularly to protect water systems, pipes, and equipment that can be damaged by freezing.

        4. How can you prevent damage caused by moisture and rodents?

Damage does not come from cold temperatures alone. During the winter, moisture and small animals can also cause significant damage to a stored vehicle.

To reduce these risks:

• Remove all food and items that may attract animals.
• Thoroughly clean the vehicle’s interior.
• Make sure all openings are properly closed.
• Avoid storing the vehicle near materials that may attract rodents.
• Watch for signs of moisture and condensation.
• Periodically inspect the storage area whenever possible.

Appropriate preventive measures may also be considered depending on the environment and type of vehicle.

The goal is to minimize damage that could otherwise go unnoticed for several months.

What steps should you take when storing a vehicle in Quebec?

         5. Do you need to declare your vehicle as stored with the SAAQ?

When a registered vehicle is taken off the road with the intention of using it again later, you may need to officially declare it as stored with the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). This process applies to many seasonally used vehicles, including certain cars, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles. Depending on the applicable rules, storing your vehicle may allow you to avoid certain registration fees during the period of inactivity and, in some situations, receive a partial refund. Here are a few important points to keep in mind:

• Vehicle storage can be declared in advance or on the same day.
• A vehicle officially declared as stored cannot be driven on a public road.
• It must be stored on private property or in an authorized location.
• The licence plate must generally remain on the vehicle.
• Rules and refunds vary depending on the vehicle category.

You can consult the official requirements on the SAAQ website.

Please note: declaring your vehicle as stored with the SAAQ and adjusting your insurance coverage are two separate steps. It is important to take care of both.

             6. Does a stored vehicle still need to be insured?

This is an important question for many vehicle owners. Even if your vehicle is not being driven during the winter, it can still be exposed to certain types of damage. For example:

• A fire in the garage.
• Vehicle theft.
• Vandalism.
• An object falling onto the vehicle.
• Certain types of weather-related damage.

Depending on your policy, it may be possible to suspend certain coverages related to driving while maintaining coverage against risks that remain during storage. Available coverage may vary depending on the type of vehicle, where it is stored, its value, and the insurer’s terms and conditions. You should therefore not assume that a stored vehicle no longer needs insurance. Before modifying or cancelling your policy, contact your broker to determine which coverages should remain in place. To better understand the available options, visit our page dedicated to vehicle storage and return-to-road insurance.

            7. Can you save on insurance while your vehicle is in storage?

Yes, in some situations. When a vehicle is not used for several months, it may be possible to adjust certain coverages to reflect this period of inactivity. This may reduce your premium, depending on the vehicle, the coverage you maintain, and the insurer’s terms and conditions. However, it is important not to focus solely on getting the lowest possible price. For example, removing certain coverages could expose you to significant expenses if your vehicle is stolen or damaged while in storage.
At Assurancia Groupe Tardif, our role is to help you strike the right balance between potential savings and coverage that is appropriate for your situation. Our brokers can compare the solutions offered by our insurance partners and explain the impact of any proposed changes.

How should you prepare to put your vehicle back on the road in the spring?

                   8. What should you check before getting back on the road?

After several months of inactivity, it is best to take a few precautions before putting your vehicle back on the road. Here are the main things to check:

• Inspect the vehicle’s overall condition.
• Check the tire pressure and condition.
• Check fluid levels.
• Check the battery’s condition and charge.
• Inspect the brakes.
• Check the lights and other safety equipment.
• Look for any signs of damage or rodent activity.
• Complete any necessary maintenance before driving the vehicle again.

If you notice anything unusual, it may be best to have the vehicle inspected by a professional before getting back on the road. Administrative requirements should also be considered. Before driving, make sure the vehicle has officially been returned to road use with the SAAQ and that the necessary insurance coverage is in effect. In Quebec, the vehicle must be returned to road use with the SAAQ on the same day you intend to drive it again. A vehicle that has been stored for more than 12 months generally requires a mechanical inspection before being put back on the road. Also remember to comply with winter tire requirements if you plan to drive during the winter season.

Why should you notify your broker before putting your vehicle back on the road?

During storage, certain coverages related to driving may have been suspended or modified. Before getting behind the wheel again, it is therefore important to contact your broker to make sure the appropriate coverage has been reinstated. Depending on your situation, this may include:

• Civil liability coverage.
• Collision and upset coverage.
• Coverage for damage to the vehicle.
• Replacement cost coverage or certain additional coverages.
• Roadside assistance or replacement vehicle coverage, if these options are available.

Do not assume that all your coverage is automatically reinstated when you take your vehicle out of storage. A simple check before getting back on the road can help you avoid unpleasant surprises in the event of an accident or claim.

Why choose Assurancia Groupe Tardif for your vehicle storage insurance needs?

At Assurancia Groupe Tardif, we know that every vehicle and every situation is different. A classic car stored in a heated garage, a motorcycle stored for the winter, or a recreational vehicle parked outdoors do not necessarily face the same risks. Our damage insurance brokers can help you find coverage suited to your situation. Working with our team means benefiting from:

• Professional advice: to understand which coverages to maintain during storage and which ones to reinstate when putting your vehicle back on the road.
• Access to several insurance partners: to compare available solutions.
• A focus on value for money: to assess potential savings without overlooking important coverage.
• Personalized guidance: taking into account the type of vehicle, its value, and how it is used.
• Expertise in auto and recreational vehicle insurance: to provide advice based on the specifics of your situation.
• Local service: giving you access to professionals who understand the realities of our regions and Quebec winters.
• Claims assistance: to guide you through the process and facilitate communication with your insurer.

Our role goes beyond simply providing you with a quote. We want to help you understand your coverage and make informed decisions in every season. Proper storage today means fewer surprises in the spring.

Properly preparing your vehicle for winter storage means investing a little time now to help avoid problems and unexpected expenses later. Cleaning, mechanical maintenance, protection against moisture, choosing the right storage location, and reviewing your insurance coverage: each step helps protect your vehicle during the months it is not being used. Most importantly, remember that storing and returning your vehicle to the road involves more than just mechanical considerations. Your insurance coverage should also reflect how your vehicle is actually being used.

At Assurancia Groupe Tardif, our brokers are here to advise you, compare available options, and provide guidance so you can fully enjoy your vehicle when the warmer weather returns. Planning to store your vehicle for the winter or put it back on the road? Discover our vehicle storage and return-to-road insurance service or visit assuremoi.ca for advice and a quote tailored to your needs.

Assurancia Groupe Tardif — Insured to be well insured.